Reasons to Add More Plant Based Foods to Your Diet
There are many reasons to add more plants to your diet, in this article, we’ll explore just a few. A plant based diet is linked with lower rates of coronary artery disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancer. It can also improve your mood, energy levels and mental acuity. This is because you’ll be eating more whole foods and less processed ones with too much sodium or sugar. Add in some fruits and vegetables for natural vitamins and minerals you can’t go wrong with this.
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What is a plant based diet and how can it improve your health?
A plant-based diet is one that is based primarily on fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains. It is a healthy way to eat and has been shown to reduce the risk for many diseases, including coronary artery disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancer.
One of the benefits of a plant-based diet is that it is high in fiber. This can help to keep you regular and may also reduce your risk for constipation and other gastrointestinal problems. Fiber can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and keep cholesterol levels in check.
A plant-based diet is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol. This can help to lower your risk for heart disease and other chronic conditions. Plant-based foods can help to keep your heart healthy and may also improve your mood, energy levels and mental acuity.
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People who switch to a plant-based diet have been shown to lose weight as well as reduce their risk for diabetes, hypertension and other chronic conditions associated with obesity. That’s because plant based diets are often low in fat, but high in nutrients and fiber. This helps you stay fuller for longer, making it easier to lose weight. Some people have also claimed that they have lost this weight without exercising-which can be hard for many people to maintain after losing weight.
Plant-based foods are rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron and magnesium which are essential for good health. A diet rich in natural vitamins and minerals can improve every aspect of your health, including boosting your immune system.
The benefits of eating more plants
When you add more plants to your diet, you’re doing your body a huge favor. Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect:
- You’ll reduce your risk for coronary artery disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancer.
- You’ll have more energy and be in a better mood.
- You’ll think more clearly and be more alert.
- You’ll lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- You’ll get all the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs.
- You’ll feel fuller after eating, so you’ll be less likely to snack on unhealthy foods.
- Eating plants is environmentally friendly-it reduces your carbon footprint.
- You’ll save money because plant-based foods tend to be less expensive.
How to make the switch to a plant based diet
Making the switch to a plant-based diet can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start by gradually adding more plant foods to your diet. Add a side of steamed vegetables to your dinner, have a salad with your dinner, or have a fruit salad for breakfast. Smoothies are another great way to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet.
- Get creative in the kitchen. There are plenty of plant-based recipes out there-you just need to explore a bit. Download 15 recipes right here.
- Find a support group or online forum to connect with other people who are also following a plant-based diet. This can be helpful for finding new recipes and getting advice on how to deal with challenges.
- Make sure you’re getting enough protein. There are plenty of plant-based sources of protein that you can prepare in a variety of ways.
- Don’t be afraid to try new foods, especially ones that might seem unusual or unappetizing. Quinoa, for example, is actually very versatile and quick cooking! Or try cooking with essential oils to bring more flavor and health benefits to your food.
- Find out which nutrients you need the most help with and focus on foods that can provide those. For example, someone who needs help with their iron intake should eat more leafy greens and people who need help with calcium should eat more dark leafy greens and beans.
- Finally, don’t be afraid to use nutritional yeast when cooking. It’s a vegan staple for a reason.
Tips for making healthy food choices on a budget
If you’re looking to make healthy food choices on a budget, here are a few tips to help you out:
- Start by making a list of the foods you typically eat and then compare it to a list of healthy foods. Chances are, there’s some overlap.
- Find recipes for healthy dishes that are quick and easy to make. There are plenty of recipes online and in cookbooks. Download 15 recipes right here.
- Shop at your local farmer’s market. Not only will you get fresh, locally-grown produce, but you’ll also be supporting your local farmers.
- Join a CSA (community-supported agriculture). This is a great way to get fresh, seasonal produce directly from a local farm.
- Buy in bulk. This can be a great way to save money, as long as you have the space for it.
- Visit your local health food store for deals on nutritious foods that are typically more expensive at other places, like organic produce or nutritional yeast.
- Grow your own vegetables! It may sound daunting but there are plenty of plant varieties that are easy to grow.
- Stick with the outside aisles at your grocery store. More processed items tend to cost more, so you’ll be able to save by sticking with the produce, whole grains and other healthy staples on the perimeter.
- Keep an eye out for sales-this is a great time to stock up and save.
- Buy in-season produce when possible: it’s cheaper and tastes better, too!
- Don’t be afraid of food in unusual forms like seaweed or nutritional yeast. They can make your meals more interesting and provide some missing nutrients.
- Finally, don’t be afraid to try new things. There are plenty of healthy recipes out there that use unusual ingredients, just make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.
- Some great recipes using vegetables, fruits, beans and legumes that are cheap but delicious.
Healthy, plant based meal ideas and recipes
There are plenty of recipes for healthy, delicious dishes that use cheap ingredients. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Black Bean Burrito Bowls: This recipe is easy to make and can be tailored to your own tastes. All you need is a bowl of black beans, some rice, avocado, salsa and sour cream.
- Vegetarian Chili: This hearty dish is perfect for cold winter nights. It’s made with kidney beans, tomatoes, corn and spices.
- Quinoa Fried Rice: This dish is a great way to use up leftovers. Simply cook quinoa according to package instructions, then add it to a pan with vegetable broth, soy sauce, eggs and whatever veggies you have on hand.
- Vegetarian Pumpkin and Lentil Soup: This soup is hearty and packed with nutrients like protein and fiber. It’s perfect for autumn or winter nights when it’s cold outside and you want something warm and comforting.
- Mediterranean Salad: This salad combines some of the healthiest foods known to man like chickpeas, artichokes, tomatoes and avocado. Pair it with whole wheat pita bread for a healthy meal.
- Veggie Burrito Bowls: This recipe calls for brown rice, black beans, salsa, frozen corn, tomato sauce, taco seasoning mix and veggies of your choice. It’s quick to make and full of protein!
Plant Based Minestrone Soup Recipe
White Bean Dip With Seasoned Pita Chips
Apple and Coconut Breakfast Quinoa
Super Simple Healthy Oatmeal Recipe
Final thoughts on why to add more plant foods to your diet
A plant-based diet is a great way to improve your health and wellbeing. It’s been shown to reduce the risk for coronary artery disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancer. It can also help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, boost your energy levels and mood, and increase your mental acuity. Plant based diets also help prevent premature aging. Plant-based foods make your skin look healthy and radiant. There are plenty of recipes out there that use cheap ingredients, so it’s easy to get started on this healthy way of eating. Give it a try today.
